What is the best order to study for JLPT levels?
Quick Answer
Start with N5 foundations, progress through N4, N3, N2, and finally N1. You can skip levels based on existing knowledge.
The optimal JLPT study progression depends on your starting point and goals. Here's a comprehensive guide:
Standard progression path
1. **N5 Foundation (3-6 months)** - Master hiragana and katakana - Learn 100 basic kanji - Study fundamental grammar with Genki I or equivalent
2. **N4 Basic Proficiency (6-12 months cumulative)** - Expand to 300 kanji - Complete Genki II or equivalent - Develop basic conversation skills
3. **N3 Intermediate (12-18 months cumulative)** - Learn 650 kanji - Study Tobira or equivalent intermediate book - Begin consuming native content
4. **N2 Upper-Intermediate (18-30 months cumulative)** - Master 1,000 kanji - Use Shin Kanzen Master N2 series - Extensive reading/listening practice
5. **N1 Advanced (30-48+ months cumulative)** - Know 2,000+ kanji - Read news, novels, academic texts - Near-native comprehension ability
Accelerated paths
- Skip N5 if you have 6+ months prior study - Skip N5 and N4 if you completed university Japanese courses - Start at N3 if you lived in Japan or have extensive immersion
Key principles
- Don't rush - solid foundations prevent future struggles - Take official tests to validate your level before advancing - Each level builds on previous knowledge - Balance all skills even when focusing on one level
Key Takeaways
- 1Standard path: N5 → N4 → N3 → N2 → N1
- 2Skip levels based on existing knowledge
- 3Solid foundations prevent future struggles
- 4Each level takes 6-12 months on average
- 5Balance all skills throughout progression
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